The saying goes that crime doesn't pay, but films often show us that's only true if you end up behind bars. Those who are good at concealing their actions frequently find a way around the law, so long as they can stay one step ahead of the authorities. This idea is really challenged in writer-director Bart Layton’s third film, which follows a smooth, mysterious, and seemingly ordinary Los Angeles jewel thief (Chris Hemsworth) who's exceptionally skilled—he successfully carries out his profitable schemes without getting caught or hurting anyone. However, things get complicated during his latest job, causing him to reconsider his situation and what the future holds. These circumstances unexpectedly force him to improvise in order to stay ahead of those chasing him: an unusual but perceptive detective (Mark Ruffalo), a sharp insurance agent who handles assets for wealthy people (Halle Berry), and an erratic rival thief (Barry Keoghan) brought in by his partner (Nick Nolte) when the seasoned criminal seems to be losing confidence. Everyone involved has something at risk, both personally and professionally, but figuring out what to do and who to believe becomes increasingly difficult. In some ways, as the film’s title suggests, the story's foundation might seem fairly standard for a heist movie. Still, there are details that help make this release stand out from many others in the genre. For example, the characters have more development than you usually see in these kinds of films; almost every character feels deeper and more complex. The production quality is also remarkable, noticeably better than other similar movies when it comes to things like camera work, editing (particularly during the exciting car chases), and the music. And, naturally, the performances from the talented cast contribute significantly to what sets this film apart. It’s true that some parts of the movie could be improved, especially the pacing in the middle section and fleshing out a few minor plot points. Overall, “Crime 101” is better than most people might anticipate from something like this, making for an enjoyable experience, even if it isn't groundbreaking or exceptionally original. But it’s one of those movies that manages to pull it off—and there’s nothing wrong with that.

Source on TMDB